Volunteers keep Brentford museum open

One of London’s smallest museums, based in a Grade II Listed Toll House at Brentford Lock, is going to be opened every Friday by volunteers for the Canal & River Trust.

The museum at the Toll House in Brentford offers a fascinating and intimate slice of waterways history for children and adults alike
Debbie Vidler

Visitors will be able to find out about the history of the waterways and why Brentford Lock, at the junction between the Thames and the Grand Union Canal, played such an important role when London’s canals and rivers were a transport gateway to the rest of the world. The Toll House dates from 1900s, when the building would have contained ledgers that recorded the type and weight of cargo passing through the lock. The boats would pay a toll on the cargo they carried.

People with any information about the history of Brentford Lock are being asked to come into the museum and talk to the volunteers. The Trust wants to build up a picture of the area from the memories of locals, boaters and everyone else who enjoys the canal.

Debbie Vidler, London volunteer coordinator at the Canal & River Trust, said: “The museum at the Toll House in Brentford offers a fascinating and intimate slice of waterways history for children and adults alike. I’m delighted that Samantha has volunteered to keep the museum open and hope locals, boaters and anyone interested in our fantastic canals comes along to have a look.”

From March the volunteers will be opening the Toll House up every Friday from 10am and 1pm. The Trust is encouraging anyone interested in helping keep the museum open to get in touch. For further information on volunteering at the museum, and for other volunteering opportunities, please contact Debbie Vidler edeborah.vidler@canalrivertrust.org.ukm 07825 099 167